Waze ends support for older Android devices as Android 10 becomes minimum

Waze will stop delivering updates to devices running Android 8 (Oreo) and Android 9 (Pie) after its latest beta requires Android 10 or higher. Users on older devices can still run the app to navigate, but they will not receive new features, bug fixes, or other updates. The change affects smartphones, tablets, and some aftermarket car infotainment systems that rely on older Android builds. Google Maps remains a fallback for those devices that cannot be upgraded.

Waze's real-time, crowdsourced data, including incident reports, police traps, road hazards and gas prices, has been a core part of the app's appeal. As the platform pushes newer OS versions, those features are tied to more recent software and services that older devices may not support. Meanwhile, Google Maps continues to support Android 8 and 9, offering a familiar navigation alternative for users who cannot upgrade hardware. In-car infotainment units that cannot update may lose some functionality as well.

To stay with the full Waze experience, users on older hardware may consider several steps: check their Android version, upgrade their device to Android 10 or newer if possible, update car infotainment firmware if available, and keep Google Maps as a backup option if upgrading is not possible. Some budget-friendly Android 10+ devices and newer car head units are widely available, and many aftermarket units support updating to Android 10 or newer. If upgrading is not feasible, keeping Google Maps as a navigation option can help ensure continued access to mapping and routing features.

Context and outlook: The shift reflects a broader pattern in app development that prioritizes newer OS versions to enable advanced features and stronger security. For most Android users on modern devices, the change is routine. But those on older hardware, particularly in vehicles, should plan ahead to avoid losing navigation access. The move underscores the industry emphasis on evolving software ecosystems and the practical realities of maintaining cross-device support across a fragmented hardware landscape.